Annapurna Circuit Luxury Trek: Nepal's Premier Himalayan Adventure

Begin your Nepal tour and treks with a warm VIP welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport provided by Bridge Nepal Treks and Travels. Upon arrival you will be met by our professional representative who will assist with luggage, immigration guidance as needed, and a comfortable, private transfer to your luxury hotel in Thamel. After settling in, enjoy time to refresh and explore the nearby streets at a relaxed pace. Later in the evening, join our local guides for a detailed trek briefing covering route plans, daily schedules, porter and guide services, safety protocols, altitude guidance, and recommended gear to ensure a smooth start to your adventure.

Tribhuvan International Airport is Nepal's main international gateway, located near the heart of the Kathmandu Valley. Thamel is the city’s lively tourist quarter known for its dense cluster of shops, restaurants, trekking outfitters, and easy access to cultural sites. The neighborhood is an ideal place to make final gear checks, purchase small supplies, and acclimatize gently before heading into the mountains.

Discover Kathmandu's rich cultural tapestry with guided visits to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. In the company of an experienced guide you will explore Swayambhunath, Boudhanath, Pashupatinath, and Patan Durbar Square, learning about their historic significance, religious practices, and local traditions. The day will also include dedicated time to finalize trek logistics: confirm permit documentation, review luggage and packing lists, fit any last-minute gear, discuss contingency plans, and meet the full trekking team including porters and guides to build rapport before departure.

Swayambhunath, commonly called the Monkey Temple, crowns a hilltop and offers sweeping views over the Kathmandu Valley while mixing Buddhist and Hindu symbolism. Boudhanath is one of the largest stupas in South Asia and serves as an active Tibetan Buddhist pilgrimage center with spinning prayer wheels and surrounding monasteries. Pashupatinath is a major Hindu sanctuary on the Bagmati River where rituals and cremation ghats are a deep part of local spiritual life. Patan Durbar Square showcases exquisite Newar architecture, carved wooden windows, and historic palaces, offering insight into Kathmandu Valley arts and history.

After an early breakfast depart Kathmandu and travel through changing landscapes, terraced fields, and small towns on a scenic drive to Besisahar. The road portion typically takes several hours and showcases rural Nepalese life and the broad Marsyangdi River valley. From Besisahar you will continue by comfortable 4x4 jeep along winding mountain roads and tracks that climb steadily to Chame, the administrative center for the Manang district. Along the way enjoy occasional viewpoints, short rest stops, and photo opportunities as the Annapurna massif gradually reveals itself.

Besisahar is an important riverside town and logistical hub for many routes into the Annapurna region; it marks the junction between lowland roads and mountain trails. Chame, perched higher in the valley, functions as an acclimatization point with guesthouses, lodges, and local markets, and it offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks—an ideal place to rest and prepare for the trekking sections ahead.

Begin trekking along well-maintained trails that climb through pine and mixed forests, crossing small streams and passing traditional Mani walls and shrines. The day's walking is moderate in length but steadily uphill, offering regular vistas that grow more dramatic as you ascend. Arrive at Upper Pisang by late afternoon where stone-built houses and terraced fields sit against a backdrop of towering peaks; enjoy a hot meal and relax in your premium teahouse while soaking in early mountain light.

Upper Pisang sits on a high ledge above the Marsyangdi Valley and provides striking panoramic views of the Annapurna massif, particularly Annapurna II and IV. Traditional village architecture and the open, elevated position make it a memorable introduction to high-altitude Himalayan landscapes and local mountain life.

Follow the upper trail that traverses high ridgelines and passes through the picturesque villages of Ghyaru and Ngawal. The route offers spectacular vantage points of deep valleys and snow-clad peaks while exposing you to local farming terraces and monastery sites. Continue descending briefly and then climbing into the Manang basin where the air feels crisper and stone-built teahouses welcome trekkers. Arrive in Manang in the late afternoon and use the evening to rest, hydrate, and review plans for acclimatization hikes.

Ghyaru and Ngawal are traditional mountain settlements perched on ridgelines, known for their narrow alleys and stone terracing that frame amazing views. Manang is a central hub in the upper Annapurna region, with a variety of guesthouses, small shops, and services; it is also the staging area for acclimatization hikes and onward high-altitude routes.

Spend a full day in Manang to properly acclimatize and reduce the risk of altitude-related illness. Choose from several optional hikes—walk to Gangapurna Glacier viewpoint, undertake the trail to Ice Lake for breathtaking high-altitude scenery, or visit Bhojo Gompa to experience local monastery life. Alternatively, spend the day resting, hydrating, and enjoying conversations with local guides to learn about regional culture, flora, and fauna. Your guide will advise the best activity based on weather, fitness, and acclimatization needs.

Gangapurna Glacier and Ice Lake are spectacular high-altitude features that offer close encounters with glacial landscapes, moraine fields, and crisp alpine air. Bhojo Gompa is a local Buddhist monastery providing cultural context, peaceful panoramic viewpoints above Manang, and a glimpse into monastic life that has shaped communities in this region.

Leave Manang behind and ascend through high alpine pastures that are seasonally used for grazing yaks. The trail is open, with sweeping views and fewer trees, creating an expansive mountain experience. Trekking at a measured pace, keep an eye out for mountain wildlife such as blue sheep, Himalayan birds, and grazing yak herds. Upon reaching Yak Kharka, enjoy the serene highland atmosphere, a warm meal, and rest in comfortable teahouse accommodations provided by the team.

Yak Kharka is a broad pastureland where local herders bring yaks for grazing during warmer months. The area’s open terrain provides good opportunities to observe Himalayan fauna, pastoral life, and unobstructed views of surrounding peaks, making it an important and atmospheric stop on the route.

A shorter, careful ascent delivers you to Thorong Phedi, the last cluster of lodges before Thorong La. Today’s walking is focused on conserving energy and optimizing acclimatization: move deliberately, eat well, and ensure clothing and equipment are ready for the high pass crossing. Arrive in the early afternoon to rest, charge devices if available, and consult with guides about weather windows and timing for the pass crossing to ensure safety and comfort.

Thorong Phedi functions as the staging area for Thorong La where trekkers finalize clothing, crampon usage if needed, and high-altitude planning. The site is exposed and winds can be strong; staying hydrated and warm here is essential for a successful crossing.

Rise before dawn for the classic high-pass crossing of Thorong La. The ascent is steady and exposed, and on clear days you will be rewarded with sweeping sunrise panoramas across neighboring ranges. After reaching the pass at 5,416m, take time to celebrate the achievement, then begin a long but rewarding descent toward Muktinath. The descent traverses varied terrain and climate zones, moving from alpine to drier, lower-elevation landscapes as you approach the sacred pilgrimage site.

Thorong La is one of the most famous trekking passes in the Himalaya, offering dramatic vistas and a genuine sense of accomplishment. Muktinath is a multi-faith pilgrimage complex revered by Hindus and Buddhists, noted for its temple, temples’ water spouts, and a peaceful atmosphere; it provides cultural depth to the physical journey and an opportunity for reflection after the pass crossing.

Leave Muktinath and drive through stark, beautiful landscapes to Kagbeni, a village where Tibetan-style culture and architecture are clearly visible. Continue the drive to Marpha, a village famous for its apple orchards, traditional stone houses, and artisanal products. Spend time walking the village lanes, sampling locally made apple products such as dried apples and apple brandy, and learning about how high-altitude agriculture and trade shape life in this part of the Mustang region.

Kagbeni marks the traditional gateway to Upper Mustang with its narrow alleys and whitewashed houses that reflect Tibetan influences. Marpha is celebrated as Nepal’s apple capital, where orchards provide important seasonal income and where local culinary traditions—like apple-based preserves and spirits—offer a flavorful cultural experience.

Follow trails that wind through varied terrain—riverbeds, terraces, and forest patches—toward Kalopani. The walk offers diverse scenery and frequent viewpoints to pause and appreciate distant peaks. Along the trail you will encounter local settlements and cross small bridges, which together create a vivid picture of life in the Dhaulagiri region. Arrive in Kalopani and rest in a cozy teahouse while enjoying views of massive mountain faces.

Kalopani occupies a strategic vantage point for viewing the Dhaulagiri massif and neighboring Nilgiri peaks. The location’s dramatic topography, with steep river valleys and layered vegetation zones, highlights the geological and ecological contrasts of the region.

Descend by road into lower elevation zones and arrive in Tatopani, where natural hot springs provide a perfect opportunity to relax weary muscles and joints. Spend the afternoon soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters, walking riverside paths, and enjoying the verdant surroundings. The village atmosphere here is tranquil and restorative, offering a pleasant contrast after several days of high-altitude trekking.

Tatopani’s geothermal pools are a celebrated highlight for trekkers—a place to unwind and reflect on the journey while benefiting from the restorative properties attributed to the spring waters. The surrounding river valley scenery and local hospitality make it an ideal spot to celebrate progress and recharge.

Begin a steady, scenic climb through rhododendron and oak forests interspersed with Magar villages as you make your way toward Ghorepani. The trail includes sections of stair climbs and forested tracks, with numerous viewpoints that frame distant peaks and valleys. Arrive in Ghorepani in the late afternoon, check into a comfortable teahouse, and prepare for the early morning hike to Poon Hill—an accessible but highly rewarding viewpoint.

Ghorepani is highly regarded for its proximity to Poon Hill and for the sweeping 360-degree mountain panoramas it affords. The surrounding rhododendron forests are botanically significant and add seasonal color and interest to the trek, while Magar villages provide cultural insight into one of Nepal’s indigenous mountain communities.

Rise early and hike the short, steep trail to Poon Hill to witness an unforgettable sunrise that sets the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges aglow. After soaking in the panoramic views and taking photographs, return for breakfast and begin a longer trek to Tadapani through mossy forests and vegetated slopes. The walk is peaceful and shaded, with chances to observe birdlife and appreciate the cool mountain air before reaching the serene village of Tadapani for the night.

Poon Hill (3,210m) provides iconic sunrise vistas that attract photographers and trekkers from around the world; from the vantage point you can see a layered panorama of major Himalayan peaks. Tadapani is a quiet forested settlement popular for its tranquil lodges, rhododendron groves, and close encounters with native flora and fauna.

Descend through terraced fields and traditional villages toward Ghandruk, a well-known Gurung settlement with preserved architecture, cultural displays, and excellent viewpoints of the Annapurna South and Machapuchare peaks. After lunch in Ghandruk, continue by vehicle to Pokhara where you will check in to a luxury lakeside hotel. Use the evening to relax by Phewa Lake, visit lakeside cafés, and enjoy a celebratory meal with the trekking team.

Ghandruk is a culturally rich Gurung village noted for stone houses, local museums, and panoramic mountain views that showcase high Himalayan peaks in close perspective. Pokhara is a lively lakeside city famous for its relaxed atmosphere, Phewa Lake’s reflective waters, and as a gateway for post-trek relaxation and additional adventure activities like paragliding and boating.

Enjoy a full day at leisure in Pokhara to rest, reflect, and partake in optional activities. Choose to take a tranquil boat ride on Phewa Lake and visit Tal Barahi Temple, experience the adrenaline of paragliding from Sarangkot for aerial mountain panoramas, or unwind with spa treatments and lakeside dining. Your guide can help book activities and recommend safe, reputable operators so you can enjoy a restorative day after the trek.

Phewa Lake anchors Pokhara's leisure scene, offering mirror-like reflections of the Annapurna range on calm mornings. Sarangkot, a nearby ridge, is world-famous for its sunrises and paragliding launches, while the International Mountain Museum provides an excellent overview of Himalayan mountaineering history, cultural context, and regional ecology.

Return to Kathmandu by choosing either a short scenic flight that takes approximately 25 minutes or a longer but scenic 6–7 hour drive that winds through rivers, farmlands, and small towns. Flights provide aerial views of the Himalayan foothills on clear days, while driving offers an intimate look at Nepal’s varied landscapes and rural communities. Once in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and enjoy free time before meeting the group for a gourmet farewell dinner where guides and team members will share highlights and memories from the journey.

The route between Pokhara and Kathmandu is one of Nepal’s most traveled corridors; flying gives a quick and spectacular vantage point when the weather cooperates, while the drive allows you to observe the everyday life of valley and foothill communities, making it an appealing option for those who prefer a more grounded travel experience.

After breakfast and final packing, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your international departure. Allow extra time for city traffic and international check-in procedures. Carry memories, photographs, and stories from the trail as well as any last-minute local purchases made in Thamel. Our team can assist with onward logistics or transfers if you have connecting travel arrangements.

Tribhuvan International Airport is the main international gateway for departures from Kathmandu and is reachable by private transfer from Thamel. Planning your departure time with allowances for peak traffic and airline check-in requirements will help ensure a calm and punctual conclusion to your Nepal journey.